Jailed Iranian dervishes set terms for ending hunger strike

The nine jailed Gonabadi dervishes who have begun a hunger strike have issued a statement to announce their demands.

The Majzooban-e noor website reports that the Gonabadi dervishes write that they demand answers from the authorities regarding "years of persecution of dervishes by the state and the violation of their rights." They also call for an end "to enmity with the followers of mysticism."

The imprisoned dervishes write that they have already written their wills and are prepared to die for their cause.

The website reports that the condition of the prisoners on hunger strike is reported to be very grave, but judiciary officials have not made any efforts to remedy the situation.